When most buyers think about home inspections, they focus on foundations, roofs, plumbing, and electrical systems. But insulation plays a major role in comfort, energy efficiency, and even long-term durability of the home. Whether you’re purchasing a brand-new home in a Dallas–Fort Worth suburb or an older property undergoing upgrades, your inspector will pay close attention to insulation — especially when it comes to spray foam vs. traditional fiberglass.

Both can perform well when installed correctly. When they’re not… problems start.

Here’s what your inspector is really looking for with each type.

First — Why Insulation Matters More Than People Think

Insulation isn’t just about keeping the house warm in winter and cool in summer. Good insulation helps:

• Reduce energy bills
• Maintain consistent indoor temperatures
• Prevent condensation and moisture problems
• Reduce HVAC strain and extend equipment life
• Improve indoor comfort and air quality

In Texas, where extreme heat is common and humidity can sneak its way into attics and walls, properly installed insulation is critical.

Spray Foam Insulation: What Inspectors Look For

Spray polyurethane foam (SPF) has become very popular in North Texas, especially in newer construction. It creates an air seal that fiberglass simply can’t match — but only if installed correctly.

Types of Spray Foam

• Open-cell – Softer, spongier, typically used on roof decking/attics
• Closed-cell – Rigid, moisture resistant, also adds structural strength

Your inspector looks for signs that the right type was used in the right application.

🔍 Key Things an Inspector Evaluates With Spray Foam

✔ Coverage
Is it applied evenly? Missing areas leave hot/cold spots and reduce performance.

✔ Proper Placement
Most spray foam homes are “conditioned attic” designs. If so, insulation should be on the roof deck — not the ceiling joists. Incorrect placement can trap moisture and cause mold or roof sheathing damage.

✔ Ventilation Strategy
With spray foam attics, ventilation is typically sealed off. The design must match the HVAC strategy. A sealed attic with no conditioning = moisture and air quality problems.

✔ Moisture & Condensation Concerns
Inspectors look for staining, wood warping, musty odors, or foam pulling away from rafters — all signs something isn’t right.

✔ Installation Quality
Overspray? Crumbling foam? Gaps? Amateur installation can create expensive fixes.

Fiberglass Insulation: What Inspectors Look For

Fiberglass batt insulation has been around for decades and is still widely used. When properly installed, it can perform well — but it’s far more installation-sensitive than most people realize.

🔍 Key Things an Inspector Evaluates With Fiberglass

✔ Compression & Gaps
Fiberglass must maintain thickness. Compressed insulation = reduced R-value. Gaps = heat transfer.

✔ Correct Fit
Batts should be cut and fitted — not stuffed. Poorly trimmed material leaves voids where heat moves freely.

✔ Attic Coverage & Depth
In an attic, consistent coverage matters. Your inspector checks:

• Depth
• Bare spots
• Areas around stairs, decking, or platforms

✔ Signs of Rodents or Moisture
Fiberglass doesn’t stop airflow, so dust, humidity, and pests can travel through it. Inspectors look for:

• Nesting
• Staining
• Odors
• Moisture damage

Energy Efficiency: Which Performs Better?

Spray foam almost always wins in performance when installed correctly because it:

• Seals air leaks
• Reduces drafts
• Lowers HVAC workload
• Often improves comfort noticeably

Fiberglass does a good job only if installed perfectly and paired with proper air sealing. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case.

However, spray foam costs more — and not every home needs it.

Longevity & Maintenance Differences

Spray Foam

• Very durable
• Doesn’t sag
• Doesn’t easily absorb moisture (closed-cell)
• Usually “set it and forget it”

Fiberglass

• Can sag over time
• Can be displaced by people walking in attic
• Can hold moisture if exposed
• May need refreshing in older homes

So What Does Your Inspector Really Care About?

At the end of the day, your inspector isn’t “Team Spray Foam” or “Team Fiberglass.”
We are Team Proper Installation.

We evaluate:

• Safety
• Performance
• Moisture control
• Longevity

A properly insulated home should be efficient, comfortable, and safe — regardless of the material.

Thinking About Buying a Home in the DFW Area?

Whether it’s a brand-new build with spray foam or a 1990’s home with fiberglass in the attic, insulation is one of the many systems we thoroughly evaluate during an inspection. Identifying insulation issues now can save you from:

• Higher utility bills
• Comfort problems
• HVAC system stress
• Long-term moisture or mold concerns

If you want peace of mind during your home purchase, schedule your inspection with SFR Inspections who understand modern building practices — not just surface-level checklist items.